Cat breed comparison
British Shorthair vs American Shorthair
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home. The American Shorthair tends to live about 2 years longer.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | British Shorthair | American Shorthair |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Weight | 12 to 20 lbs | 8 to 15 lbs |
| Life span | 12 to 17 years | 15 to 17 years |
| Lap cat | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Background
Where they come from.
The British Shorthair
Descended from cats brought to Britain by the Romans, it was one of the first breeds shown at the 1871 Crystal Palace cat show. The blue variety is the best known.
It is calm and undemanding, and usually prefers not to be picked up.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Obesity
The American Shorthair
Descended from cats that travelled with European settlers to North America to protect food stores from rats. It is one of the most popular pedigree breeds in the US.
It is a sturdy, easygoing working cat that adapts to most homes.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Hip dysplasia
- Obesity
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Vocal
The American Shorthair is more vocal than the British Shorthair.
Affection
The American Shorthair is more affectionate than the British Shorthair.
Energy
The American Shorthair has more energy than the British Shorthair.
Grooming needs
The British Shorthair needs more grooming than the American Shorthair.
Shedding
The British Shorthair sheds more than the American Shorthair.
Needs company
The American Shorthair needs more company than the British Shorthair.
Which to choose
British Shorthair or American Shorthair?
Choose the British Shorthair if…
- You prefer a quiet cat (it is quieter)
- You’d like a more independent cat (it is more independent)
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You’re out for part of the day (it is happier alone)
Choose the American Shorthair if…
- You enjoy a chatty cat (it is more vocal)
- You want a cuddly cat (it is more affectionate)
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You want a cat that needs less grooming
Questions.
Is the British Shorthair or the American Shorthair bigger, and which lives longer?
The American Shorthair tends to live about 2 years longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the British Shorthair or the American Shorthair?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the British Shorthair or the American Shorthair?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The American Shorthair sheds less than the British Shorthair. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
What health problems do the British Shorthair and American Shorthair have?
The British Shorthair is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, obesity. The American Shorthair is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, obesity. Both share a risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and obesity. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
